Found this very cool like-new MTP smock combat windproof.I like the old arctic smock cutwith the modern camo.I'm just curious why the didn't used the newer slotted buttons....I'm also not sure if the Royal army has patch placing rules, the ones on the jacket look a bit strange placed...

Slotted buttons are a have, that's why the manufacturer of this has stayed with normal buttons. All slotted buttons do are droop and give a real poor form of closure. The best way to use slotted buttons is for a horizontal mounting method which most manufacturers don't seem to do. A snagged button whether its slotted or traditional will come off the same.

We have the slotted buttons on our MCU and they suck!! The label doesn't show a manufacturer that I can see. The traditional manufacturer of these style of smock always made a god product, and Id say they don't ate the slotted either.

My lad has been issued with a smock with these buttons and a couple with slotted buttons (the earlier type is better made. The location of the TRF and Flag seem ok to me. The EOD Search Team Qualification badge would be worn on the cuff with other uniforms but on a smock it makes sense to be here, sort of like a blue light on an emergency vehicle, tells people not to get in his way and let him get on with his job. Makes perfect sense to have it where it can be seen, although that is speculation on my part.

Union flag is sewn on by the supplier and this is now common although it should be higher up. The other two badges TRF and qualification are both sewn on by the soldier or unit tailor and again the TRF placement is farily common.

Thanks again for your info.I tested the smock during rainy,windy weather today.And I'm impressed, lightweight and super water repellant and no stupid mesh liner which gets caught by the velcro all the time.I prefer it now over the more bulky MTP PCS smock.